At Burnt Oak Junior School, we believe history provides children with opportunities to explore the past, develop their curiosity and understand how people, events and societies have shaped the world we live in today.

Our history curriculum encourages children to ask questions, investigate different periods and develop an appreciation of the lives and experiences of people throughout history. Through exploring significant events, civilisations and individuals, children develop an understanding of how the past influences the present.

We want every child to see themselves as a historian. History encourages children to think critically, examine evidence, consider different perspectives and develop their own understanding of the past.

Our History Curriculum – CUSP

At Burnt Oak Junior School, we follow the CUSP History Curriculum, which provides a carefully planned and sequenced approach to developing children's historical knowledge, understanding and enquiry skills.

Throughout Years 3 to 6, children build on their previous learning as they explore British history, ancient civilisations and significant events from across the wider world. The curriculum encourages children to make connections between historical periods, recognise patterns of change and understand the impact of important people and events.

Our history curriculum develops children's understanding of key historical concepts:

• Chronology – developing an understanding of when events happened and how different historical periods relate to one another.

• Cause and Consequence – exploring why events happened and the impact they had on people and societies.

• Change and Continuity – identifying how life has changed over time and what has remained the same.

• Similarity and Difference – comparing the experiences, beliefs and ways of life of people from different periods and cultures.

• Historical Evidence – using artefacts, photographs, documents and other sources to investigate and interpret the past.

• Historical Significance – understanding why particular people, events and developments are remembered and studied.

• Historical Enquiry – asking questions, examining evidence and developing informed conclusions about the past.

Children also develop their understanding of important historical ideas, including monarchy, power, invasion, empire, democracy and society, helping them make meaningful connections across different periods of history.

History Beyond the Classroom

We believe history comes to life when children have opportunities to explore the past beyond their textbooks.

At Burnt Oak Junior School, we use historical artefacts, photographs, documents, stories and educational visits to deepen children's understanding and bring historical learning to life.

Through The Pioneer Passport, children have opportunities to visit places of historical interest, explore local heritage and experience learning beyond the classroom.

We encourage children to investigate historical sources, discuss different interpretations and use appropriate historical vocabulary to explain their ideas and findings.

History also provides meaningful links with other curriculum subjects, including geography, art and English, helping children develop a broader understanding of the people, places and events they study.

Our aim is for children to leave Burnt Oak Junior School as curious, knowledgeable and thoughtful learners who appreciate the importance of the past and understand how history continues to shape the world around them.